Feeding Our Community in Hard Times

Feeding Our Community in Hard Times

Many Scarborough families who are facing unexpected economic challenges due to the government shutdown are quickly approaching a crisis point. Federal workers are already going without pay, and starting this Saturday, November 1st, families who rely on SNAP benefits (“food stamps”) may not receive that food assistance for the upcoming month.

SCARBOROUGH PUBLIC SCHOOLS’ APPROACH IN LENDING A HAND IN OUR COMMUNITY

Outside the school day, we’ve worked to address needs through the establishment of our local Backpack Program, which provides non-perishable foods as well as fresh produce and meats to families in need so that our students do not go hungry over school breaks and weekends. During the school year, we prepare breakfast & lunch for weekends, holidays and school vacations, in packages that can be picked up once a week at the Wentworth kitchen or delivered for those without transportation. In a typical school year, the Backpack Program regularly serves 30 to 40 families in need each week, and we anticipate that need may be much greater this season. The entire Backpack Program happens thanks to the ongoing generosity of local community donations and small grants.

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO HELP NOW?

Monetary donations are always appreciated, and would be even more so at the current time because of the government shutdown and an anticipated growing need for those who are in position to help. Donations can be made online through the QR code here, our RevTrak web store or sent via check to the district Business Office at P. O. Box 370, Scarborough ME 040700370. As a quick example, a donation of just $20 can provide full meals for an entire weekend for a student in need.

We know that many reading this may not be in a position to offer financial support at this time, but if you are, we offer genuine thanks for doing your part to support your neighbors and our community’s youth.